A new national study by StarHub and YouGov has found that seven in ten people in Singapore turn to their screens to cope with everyday stress, even as more than 80 percent report feeling mentally drained by prolonged screen time — a tension StarHub is calling Singapore’s “growing digital dilemma.”

The survey of 1,036 respondents, conducted in April 2026, forms the basis for the next chapter of StarHub’s Digital Wellbeing initiative, launched today under the name “The Power of Pause.”

Shifting the question from how much to why

Where last year’s initiative focused on excessive screen time, this year’s edition is designed to help people understand the motivations behind their digital habits, rather than simply tracking hours spent online.

“The conversation around screen time is increasingly about balancing that with creating meaningful, real-life moments with the people around us,” said Tan Toi Chia, Chief of People, Organisation and Communications at StarHub. “As our lives become increasingly digital, choosing to pause creates opportunities to strengthen the connection between individuals, families and communities, one moment at a time.”

A more personalised Digital BMI

The initiative centres on a refreshed Digital BMI (Balanced Media Index) microsite, built with the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the National Library Board (NLB), and digital mental health platform ThoughtFull. IMDA has contributed online safety resources aimed at helping parents and youths build healthier digital habits, in support of the national Digital for Life movement.

“The study findings reflect what we see in ThoughtFull’s clinical data across the region every day: hyperconnectivity is becoming a measurable driver of psychological strain,” said Dr John Pinto, Head of Counselling at ThoughtFull. “Through our partnership with StarHub, Digital BMI users will be able to understand their emotional needs better with clinically backed content and a dedicated support journey within the ThoughtFull app.”

The Power of Pause will roll out through corporate partnerships, creator collaborations and community activations over the coming months, culminating in the return of the StarHub 5G Wellness Festival in September 2026.